The singer told Ryan Seacrest she would not return for a third season on his radio show Friday morning.

"I honestly feel the time has come to get back to do what I do. I have put it on hold because I love Idol so much," said Lopez. "It's just one of those special things you just don't want to walk away from."

As for JLo's replacement, rumors are circulating that singerMariah Carey may join "Idol."

The only remaining judge left at the moment is Randy Jackson, who is the only judge present since the show's inception, but he may soon step down as well.